In this video, we delve into the intricate process of restoring an American M60 main battle tank, a 55-ton behemoth deactivated in Greece.
While its frontal armor and turret have sustained significant damage, the remainder of the vehicle offers a promising foundation for restoration.
Let’s talk guts and gears:
Model: M60 Patton (late Cold War American main battle tank)
Weight: Approx. 55 tons
Engine: Continental AVDS-1790 V12, air-cooled diesel – simple, rugged, no fancy electronics
Transmission: Allison CD-850 automatic with good old mechanical levers and cables
Suspension: Torsion bar with solid road wheels and track pads still looking decent
Interior: Charred in places but surprisingly salvageable
Optics & Controls: Many controls and the turret traverse mechanism still function!
Despite the extensive cuts, the tank is surprisingly complete – from ammo racks to the driver’s dashboard.
Fun Facts About the M60 Patton
- Still in use in some countries today!
- The engine is air-cooled, no radiator needed
- The gearbox uses cables and rods—zero electronics
- Pop culture star: featured in World of Tanks, Call of Duty, and more
- Has an escape hatch under the seat—yes, really
Viewer Experience: What You’ll See
This video isn’t just a walkaround – it’s a full-on exploratory dive into the wreckage. You’ll witness:
- Hands-on inspection of wiring, optics, and hidden components.
- Surprise finds like functioning periscopes, intact gun computers, and even a (possibly Greek?) label.
You’ll feel the grime, smell the soot, and maybe catch a few goosebumps as the crew contemplates restoring this battle-hardened relic in just nine weeks for show season.